The Fresh Food Club
print Print this page

Sunflower Oil

In season all year

Food Description:

Sunflower oil is a popular vegetable oil. Australia, Argentina, India, South Africa, Turkey, southern and eastern Europe, Russia and the US all produce the oil. It is a relatively stable monounsaturated oil with a bland flavour. If cooking with sunflower oil, care should be taken to avoid the oil smoking.

Note: although low in salicylates, some sunflower oils may have added preservatives that mimic salicylate reactions.

General Information:

Category: Oils and Fats
To Buy: Available from health food stores and supermarkets. Best bought in dark glass bottles to protect the oil from heat and sunlight.
To Store: Always store sunflower oil in a cool, dry place to protect it from oxidising. Use oil well within the expiry date.
Tips and Tricks:

Nutrition (1 Tablespoon):

Energy (kJ): 681
Protein (g): 0.0
Saturated Fat, g : 1.2
Omega 6 (g): Polyunsaturated fatty acids essential in the diet as the body can't produce naturally. Lowers levels of harmful LDL cholesterol and blood pressure, therefore protects against heart disease. Involved in production of anti-inflammatory prostaglandins.
Amines: Amines come the breakdown or fermentation of proteins. High amounts are found in cheese, chocolate, wine, beer and yeast extracts. Smaller amounts are present in some fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, avocados, bananas.

For those with sensitivities, low foods are almost never a problem, moderate and high foods may cause reactions, depending on how sensitive you are and how much is eaten. Very high foods will most often cause unwanted symptoms in sensitive individuals. Low
Glutamates: Glutamate is found naturally in many foods, as part of protein. It enhances the flavour of food, which is why foods rich in natural glutamates such as tomatoes, mushrooms and cheeses are commonly used in meals. Pure monosodium glutamate (MSG) is used as an additive to artificially flavour many processed foods, and should be avoided, especially in sensitive individuals as it can cause serious adverse reactions. n/a
Carbohydrates, g: 0.0
Fat (g): 18.4
Monosaturated Fat , g: 15.0
Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant and immune system stimulator, this vitamin is composed of a group of compounds called tocopherols. Protects the body from free radicals, improves oxygen and blood supply to the muscles and heart for better stamina, reducing blood pressure and imroving circulation. Prevents the oxidation of harmful LDL cholesterol and inhibits scar tissue formation in arteries and skin, and counters the effects of ageing.

Contraindications:
Taken in excess may cause toxicity. Not advised for patients taking Vitamin K or anti-coagulant medicine as it may counter or exacerbate effects.
Salicylates: Naturally occurring plant chemicals found in several fruits, vegetables, nuts, herbs and spices, jams, honey, yeast extracts, tea and coffee, juices, beer and wines. Also present in flavourings, perfumes, scented toiletries and some medications.

For those with sensitivities, low foods are almost never a problem, moderate and high foods may cause reactions, depending on how sensitive you are and how much is eaten. Very high foods will most often cause unwanted symptoms in sensitive individuals. Safe/negligible amount

Cooking:

Cooking Tips: Use sunflower oil in salads, desserts, baking and dishes where you don't want the flavour of oil to influence the taste of the dish.

Benefits the Following Health Conditions:*

High Blood Cholesterol

* This information is sourced by a qualified naturopath. It is non prescriptive and not intended as a cure for the condition. Recommended intake is not provided. It is no substitute for the advice and treatment of a professional practitioner.







Natures Best Belfield

Address: 29 Burwood Rd Belfield
Call us: 9642 5613
Drop in: Monday - Saturday 8am - 6pm Sunday 8am - 5pm
Proud members of
The Fresh Food Club